Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)

Children ages birth to age five who have been identified as having a developmental delay or other disability will receive special education services through the Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program. Children ages birth to three receive services in their home or community child care setting. Classroom learning experiences for three and four year old children with special needs are provided in small group or inclusive classrooms at Quarryview Education Center, Clearview, Discovery, Kennedy, Oak Hill and Talahi Community schools.

HELP ME GROW Referral System

Parents and caregivers who have questions or concerns about a child's development can access supports and services through Early Childhood Special Education. Our program coordinates with the state of Minnesota Help Me Grow system to support families and caregivers who have a concern about a child from birth to kindergarten entrance. Referrals can be made on line at www.helpmegrowmn.org or directly to our office at our early childhood center at Quarryview Education Center in Waite Park.

The Early Childhood Evaluation Team members work collaboratively with families, caregivers and community agencies to locate and identify children ages birth to five who are demonstrating a developmental delay or have a medical condition which impacts development. The team evaluates infants, toddlers and preschool age children to determine if they qualify for ECSE services. The team also can provide resource for parents and caregivers who have questions or concerns about a child's development. These services are provided at no cost to families. Upon referral, a team member interviews a parent or legal guardian to gather information about the child's medical history and developmental skills. The information is reviewed to determine if further screening or evaluation is needed. If an evaluation is completed and the child meets the Minnesota criteria for a disability category, the child is eligible to receive special education services.

The Early Childhood Evaluation Team is located at Quarryview Education Center, 800 S. Seventh St., Waite Park, MN 56387.